President Ruto pardons 5061 petty and long-term offenders

President William Ruto has pardoned 2,944 petty offenders and 2,117 long-term offenders upon the recommendation of the Advisory Committee on the Power of Mercy.

In a gazette notice dated July 19, 2023, the president said the offenders will be remitted the unexpired portion of their respective sentences under the Power of Mercy Act, 2011.

“Two thousand, nine hundred and forty-four petty or minor offenders of good conduct convicted to sentences of six months and below; and two thousand, one hundred and seventeen long term offenders who have sentence balances of six months and below to serve,” reads the notice.

In addition, Ruto pardoned 37 other offenders including former Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) director Davy Koech.

Additionally, the Head of State commuted the death sentence on capital offenders to a life sentence.

The rule was softened following a recommendation from the Advisory Committee on the Power of Mercy chaired by Attorney General Justin Muturi.